Officials confused over 'voluntary' participation in Run for Unity

On the eve of Sardar Patel's birth anniversary, there was again a security clampdown in New Delhi, forcing thousands of government employees in over 50 key central government offices, including in North and South Block, to fold their work and go home by 2 pm on Thursday.

The diktat, coming in stark contrast to the strict work culture espoused by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was based on security reasons, officials said.

"It seems that Republic Day kind of security arrangements are becoming a norm for this government. It is a kind phobia for insecurity," grinned an officer.

However, this time the Centre's instruction, although sugar-coated as 'voluntary' to come participate in the 'Run for Unity' has left many government officials confuesed.

"Although it is voluntary invitation but we, officials of the home ministry and PMO, are taking it seriously," said a government official.

To encourage and allow its employees to participate in the run, the union home ministry has shifted the time of unity pledge to be administered by the home secretary from 9:30 am to 11:00 am
After addressing participants of 'Run for Unity' at Vijay Chowk at 0740 hrs on Friday, Modi will administer the Unity Pledge at 0800 hrs following which the Run will be flagged off from Vijay Chowk to India Gate on Rajpath at 0815 hrs.